Final Salute

Palitsch, Leland “Lee” Otto
Wynantskill – Leland “Lee” Otto Palitsch, 99 years, of Wynantskill died Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at Van Rensselaer Manor.
Born in Troy, he was the son of the late Otto and Zaidee Fuller Palitsch, and the widower of Florence Marguin Palitsch who died in 2000. He was a graduate of Catholic Central High School class of 1942.
Lee was a veteran of the U.S. Navy Seabees in World War II having served in the 81st and 25th battalions. He participated in the D-Day landings in Normandy and also served in Okinawa, Scotland, England, and Guam. His awards and citations include the American Service Medal, European-African Middle Eastern Medal with one star, Asiatic Pacific Medal with one star, Good Conduct Medal, N.Y. State Medal for Merit, and the World War II Victory Medal.
Lee owned and operated, with his brother John, Otto’s Auto Parts in Troy, retiring in 1986. Previously he had been a partner in Otto’s Service Station.
He was a communicant and charter member of St. Jude’s Church in Wynantskill, a member of the Knights of Columbus, second degree, and a member of the American Legion in Wynantskill. He enjoyed playing golf and traveling.
Survivors include his daughter, Linda Pye of East Greenbush; and grandchildren, Andrew Pye and Laura Pye (Mike) Ferraro and Erik Palitsch and Ryan Palitsch. Also survived by his brother, John Palitsch of Hopkinton, Mass., several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. Besides his parents and his beloved wife, he was predeceased by his son, David Palitsch; sister, Rita Wing; and son-in-law, David Pye.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff of Van Rensselaer Manor, C3, especially Ebony, for their loving care of Lee.
Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc., 276 Pawling Avenue Troy on Friday, August 18, from 4-7 p.m. Funeral service will be held Saturday, at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home and at 10 a.m. at St. Jude the Apostle Church Wynantskill where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Entombment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery Menands.
Donations to St. Jude’s School, 43 Brookside Avenue, Wynantskill, NY 12198 in Mr. Palitsch’s name will be appreciated.
We recommend using the brycefuneralhome.com website to share or send condolences, light a candle, view videos, or for service directions.

Published by Albany Times Union on Aug. 17, 2023.